Rangers have released a statement addressing the use of pyrotechnics by their supporters at Celtic Park during Sunday’s Glasgow Derby. The statement comes after both Celtic and Rangers were sanctioned with a 500-ticket reduction for their next League Cup match at Hampden due to previous pyro breaches.
Rangers criticized the behavior of a small section of their support, calling it “frankly embarrassing,” after they were charged for a “racist and/or discriminatory banner.” The Ibrox club stated, “Lastly, and despite clear warnings to the contrary, pyrotechnics were used by two individuals following Sunday’s Old Firm victory at Parkhead. This runs the risk of an additional 800 of our supporters being unable to attend a match in the latter stages of the Premier Sports Cup at Hampden, in addition to the 500 that will already miss out as a result of the use of pyrotechnics.”
The club also expressed concerns over objects being thrown at their players during Sunday’s game. “Indeed, our players and staff were targeted with missiles at Parkhead on Sunday.” This incident was visible from the stands, and it’s unacceptable that missiles were thrown from the Celtic section.
The statement highlights the growing trend of objects being thrown at football matches, which needs to be stopped. While Celtic fans condemn incidents at Ibrox, such as when Arne Engels was hit in the face by an object, it’s necessary to call out their own fans for similar behavior.
With both clubs under increased scrutiny, this latest statement adds to the ongoing tensions surrounding fan behavior in Scottish football. The Scottish Football Association (SFA) has been criticized for its handling of these incidents, with some calling for stricter punishments.
As one fan, Jack, commented, “This Club is not the club of old… they have got their fans believing that the world’s against them and they stand alone… they have a nasty streak going right through the club.” Another fan, Ira Newborn, added, “See what the SFA do? Nevermind say about these incidents!! The sound of silence is deafening. From all parties involved??”
The situation highlights the need for stricter punishments and greater accountability for fan behavior in Scottish football. The SFA must take a stronger stance against these incidents to prevent them from happening in the future.
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